love
brotherly kindness
godliness
perseverance
self-control
knowledge
moral excellence
applying all diligence, supply . . .
2 Peter 1:1-11
Ron Adams
ENHANCING YOUR FAITH
S I M O N P E T E R , a bond-servant and
apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who
have received a faith of the same kind
as ours, by the righteousness of our
God and Savior, Jesus Christ: Grace
and peace be multiplied to you in the
knowledge of God and of Jesus our
Lord; seeing that His divine power
h a s gr a n t e d t o u s e v e r y t h i n g
pertaining to life and godliness,
through the true knowledge of Him
who called us by His own glory and
excellence. For by these He has
granted to us His precious and
magnificent promises, in order that by
them you might become partakers
of the divine nature, having
escaped the corruption that is in the
world by lust. Now for this very
reason also, applying all diligence,
in your faith supply moral
excellence, and in your moral
excellence, knowledge; and in your
knowledge, self-control, and in your
self-control, perseverance, and in
your perseverance, godliness; and
in your godliness, brotherly
kindness, and in your brotherly
kindness, love. For if these qualities
are yours and are increasing, they
render you neither useless nor
unfruitful in the true knowledge of
our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who
lacks these qualities is blind or
short-sighted, having forgotten his
purification from his former sins.
Therefore, brethren, be all the more
diligent to make certain about His
calling and choosing you; for as long
as you practice these things, you will
never stumble; for in this way the
entrance into the eternal kingdom of
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will
be abundantly supplied to you.
2 Peter 1:1-11
CONTENTS
LESSON 1
Granted to Us
LESSON 2
Partakers of Divine Nature
LESSON 3
Applying All Diligence
LESSON 4
Moral Excellence
LESSON 5
Knowledge
LESSON 6
Self-control
LESSON 7
Perseverance (Patience)
LESSON 8
Godliness
LESSON 9
Brotherly Kindness
LESSON 10
Love (Charity)
LESSON 11
None of These ‘Qualities’
Can Survive Alone
Quotations from New American Standard Bible
Used by permission
© Copyright 1996, 2016
Ron Adams
Granted to Us
imon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who have received a faith
of the same kind as ours, by the righteousness of our God and Savior, Jesus Christ: Grace
and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; seeing that
His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true
knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. For by these He has granted
to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers
of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.
2 Peter 1:1-4
S
Written to Christians Who Had a Faith Just Like the Apostles
Escape from the Corruption That in the World by Lust
by Becoming Believers in Christ Jesus, Savior
He Has Given Us Everything That Pertains to Life and Godliness
by His Divine Power, His True Knowledge, His Glory and Excellence
He Has Granted to Us Precious and Magnificent Promises
Pardon from Sin
Guidance, Strength and Support
Forgiveness of Sins
Glorious Resurrection
Immortality
However, One Must Not Continue the Practice of Sin
As faith precedes baptism, and baptism comes before salvation,
so obedience must follow baptism.
One is saved by (active) faith.
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand,
that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10
Partakers of Divine Nature
The Lord has made this possible for those who live by faith.
Believers must see the importance of enhancing one’s faith.
A strong faith is necessary to cope with the various trials that will
test each follower.
Enhancing Your Faith
1
Partakers of Divine Nature
Divine nature contrasted with “corruption that is in the world by lust”
ne must escape pollution that is in the world in order to partake of the divine nature. The
“Christian graces” are added to support one’s faith. The divine order is, pardon first, then
holiness (consecrated living). Saved persons are to be good; however, goodness alone does not
and cannot save.
O
Nature of the Inner Man
Made in the likeness of God.
The spirit within man is in conflict with the flesh: carnal verses spiritual.
The tendency to yield to carnal desires must be overcome.
Fellowship with Christ
Fellowship is joint participation (sharing with), association, fellowship, communion.
Set apart for God exclusively (saint, sanctified).
Fellowship with Christ involves sharing in His holiness.
Fellowship with other believers involves working and worshiping together.
Fellowship with the Divine Life
Life in Christ Jesus.
God rules in our hearts.
Self-life is replaced with Christ-life in conversion.
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live
in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and delivered Himself up for me. Galatians 2:20
A new creation (creature) in Christ Jesus.
.
Christianity Is More Than
Soundness in doctrine.
Church membership.
Religious services, classes.
It is life: real, joyous, complete life.
One needs to be a partaker of the divine nature, not a holdout.
One needs to be a participant, not a spectator.
One needs to be a follower of the Lamb, growing in His grace and knowledge.
Enhancing Your Faith
2
Giving All Diligence
Diligence (Greek, spoude) to exert oneself; earnestness, zeal
n view of all that God has given us, we need to bring forth all effort and zeal to develop these
qualities in us. God has provided the means and the instructions whereby we may become
partakers of the divine nature. It is up to each individual who has put his or her faith in Christ to
develop them. The result of such diligence will be a stronger faith.
I
Growth Is of Primary Importance
The amount of growth is in direct proportion to the amount of diligence.
Growth is never accidental.
“. . . work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” Philippians 2:12
Lack of growth can be the cause of failure.
“And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence so as to realize the full
assurance of hope until the end, that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who
through faith and patience inherit the promises.” Hebrews 6:11-12
Purposeful Living
Nothing constructive is the result of chance.
Buildings, literary works, great lives are created with a purpose.
Life without purpose is akin to driftwood: shattered planks of noble vessels ruined.
Broken lives and homes are never planned.
Spiritual ruin is never the result of planning.
Christians must swim against the tides and currents of worldliness.
Setting Priorities
Spiritual things must come first.
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.”
Matthew 6:33
Each and every Christian has the responsibility of adding these qualities to their
faith. It requires diligent effort, but it must be done. It is not optional. The result
will be a faith that enables you to endure.
Enhancing Your Faith
3
Moral Excellence
Moral excellence (Greek, arte) comes from the root word ares,
the Greek god of war.
oral excellence (virtue) is used here in a specific sense: manliness, courage, vigor. It is the
vitality that gives tone, dignity and force. It is defined as force, strength of mind or body.
It is “enjoined as an essential quality in the exercise of faith.” [Vines]
M
Faith Needs to Have Strength
Be strong in the Lord . . . Ephesians 6:10
Put on the whole armor of God [for strength and protection]. Ephesians 6:11
Faith is found in the way of the Lord.
The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright. . . Proverbs 10:29
Faith Needs to Be Supported by Courage
The moral excellence (courage) is referred to in Hebrews 11.
The Lord enjoined Paul to have courage during his trials.
“. . .the Lord stood at his side and said, "Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed
to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also." Acts 23:11
It takes courage not to be ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.
It takes courage to confess Christ in a sinful world.
It takes courage to fight “the good fight of faith.”
It takes courage to “turn the other cheek.”
He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit, than he who
captures a city. Proverbs 17:32
Moral Excellence (Virtue) Is a Mark of Maturity
One must not be weak and vacillating.
“Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
Strength, courage, and vigor are qualities that need to be developed by every
Christian. It shows to others, and to God, that we stand
for truth and right.
Enhancing Your Faith
4
Knowledge
Know (Greek, gnosis) means a seeking to know, inquiry
oral excellence is defined as “force, strength of mind or body.” Such force needs to be
directed. Force can be productive or destructive. It is imperative that Christians add
knowledge to their faith, in order that the moral of moral excellence might be properly
channeled.
M
Knowledge
Not general knowledge, but specific knowledge: Christian enlightenment.
“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32
Having gained knowledge of him, we are to gain knowledge from Him.
“Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me . . .” Matthew 11:29
Knowledge of Christ
Knowledge of God and His truths are found only in the Bible.
Desire to know the truth about Christ and His Way.
Labor to understand what is revealed.
Mental industry is part of discipleship.
Examine everything carefully.
Knowledge gives us insight.
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know what is the hope
of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints. Ephesians 1:18
Truth is truth, no matter who says it, or who opposes it.
The Bible contains all we know about Christ; and we have all we need to know.
Knowledge Is to Be Applied
Knowledge without application is as worthless as faith without works.
. . . understand what the will of the Lord is. Ephesians 5:17
The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things;
and the God of peace shall be with you. Philippians 4:9
Avoid being “barren, unfruitful,” not for God’s sake, not for the sake of church, but for
your soul’s sake!
“Think-so” is not a substitute for “know so.” If truth has been communicated to us,
and the Lord expects Christians to be guided by it, it is imperative that each and
every Christian seek to know the truth of the Gospel.
Enhancing Your Faith
5
Self-Control
Self-control (Greek, egkrateia) temperance, especially continence
oral excellence (virtue) gives one’s faith the force or motion necessary. Such motion is to
be directed by the knowledge found in the Word of God. Self-control (temperance) is the
quality that keeps one moving according to knowledge; not allowing it to stray. Briefly stated,
moral excellence is force; knowledge directs that force. Self-control contains that force.
M
Self-control
Mastery of sensual appetites.
Contrasted with greed, sensuality (as found in chapter 2:1-3 and 3:3)
In a broad sense: to bring one’s mind and body under control of the spirit.
. . . but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans
8:13
The Goal Is to Please God, Not Self
Jesus commands it.
Jesus gave us an example of it.
Apostles admonished all Christians to do it.
Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that, as you received from
us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that
you may excel still more. 1 Thessalonians 4:1
The Christian Belongs to Christ
Both mind and body belong to Him.
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you
have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price:
therefore glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
One cannot serve God and mammon.
One is must not be under the power of anything that usurps His authority.
Lawful actions must be regulated (tempered) by what is best.
Unlawful acts must be avoided at all cost.
Enhancing Your Faith
6
Perseverance (Patience)
Perseverance [Greek, hupomone] cheerful (or hopeful) endurance,
constancy:--enduring, patience, patient continuance (waiting)
elf-control is that quality which helps one hold back (containing oneself). Perseverance
(patience) is that quality which causes one to hang on when difficult times come.
Persecutions, afflictions and tribulations are part of the Christian life. Perseverance is needed so
one may be able to hold on to faith. For without faith it is impossible to please God.
S
Patience Is Needed
Difficult times will come.
“And indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
2 Timothy 3:12
It is impossible to always avoid difficulties.
Patience is developed through practice
Jesus is our supreme example.
Trials Can Be Endured
Trials will not last forever. They can’t last more than a lifetime.
Trials pale when compared with our eternal reward
God has promised trials will never be more than we are able to bear.
Perseverance Is Not:
Passive resignation (offering no resistance); giving in.
Patiently enduring difficulties brought on by an attitude that stirs up opposition.
Enduring trials while whining and complaining.
It is easy to become discouraged by what besets us. We must realize that through
faith and patience we will inherit the promises. Trials are the hammer blows that
shape our character and strengthen our faith.
Enhancing Your Faith
7
Godliness
Godliness (Greek, eusebeia) reverence towards God; pious, devout
aith needs moral excellence; moral excellence needs knowledge for guidance. Which is to be
coupled with self-control (a holding back), plus perseverance (a holding on). It is not just an
incentive based on mere determination, but a sense of divine purpose in everything in our lives.
F
A Personal Attitude
One that sees God’s hand in all things, as:
Moses “seeing Him who is unseen.”
Joseph seeing that God sent him into Egypt to preserve Israel.
Christians knowing that God causes all things to work together for good to
those who love Him.
A sincere feeling of the heart towards God, in view of His character and nature.
Cornelius is said to have been godly (devout).
Characteristics of Godliness
It is dynamic, not static.
It gives incentive for action.
If affects all of one’s life.
It has substance, not just “form.”
It is “inward.”
Developing Godliness
Digest the facts concerning God.
Consider God and His mighty works
Draw near to Him and he will draw near to you
Seek things above; seek first His kingdom.
Seek to know the “doctrine of godliness” as found in the Word.
Discipline yourself.
. . . discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; for bodily discipline is only of little profit,
but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for
the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:7-8
Godliness enhances our faith. Without it, faith is incomplete, immature. We need to
stand in awe of God’s greatness and great power; seeing His hand in our lives. We
must have a God-ward attitude.
Enhancing Your Faith
8
Brotherly Kindness
Love of brothers (Greek: philadelphia) fraternal, family love
dding these qualities to enhance faith is likened to a chorus in which the addition of each
voice adds something to the whole. One voice adds depth, another brilliance, a third
harmony. Likewise, as we add these qualities to our faith it becomes deeper, brighter and more
pleasing to God. But we are not the only ones who have faith—there are others, millions of
others. Thus the necessity of brotherly kindness.
A
It Is an Integral Part of Discipleship
It is the adhesive that binds brethren together.
It is loving others as the Lord loves us, without distinctions.
By loving brethren, we show our love for God.
Features of Brotherly Love
Not a new concept.
For this is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one
another. 1 John 3:11
Fervent love, from heart (not feigned).
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Romans 12:10
A matter of debt (not an option, but an obligation).
A mark of true discipleship.
It presupposes that brethren are in contact with one another.
Jesus’ Life Is An Example
He had active love for others.
He showed compassion for the afflicted, the downtrodden, those enslaved to sin.
He went about doing good.
You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power,
and how He went about doing good, and healing all who were oppressed by the devil; for
God was with Him. Acts 10:38
It Is Necessary for Unity in the Church
Oneness in doctrine is the basis for unity.
Brotherly love is the bond of unity.
Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit,
intent on one purpose. Philippians 2:2
It motivates members to work for and with one another.
Members must understand that oneness in doctrine is not enough to bond members
together—it is brotherly love that binds hearts and souls together.
Enhancing Your Faith
9
Love (Charity)
Benevolence, charity; to love in a moral or social sense (Greek: agape, agapao)
s we practice brotherly kindness to those of like faith, we must be careful not to let it be a
narrow and exclusive love. Love is to be shown to God and to all men. Love is active good
will; it is seeking another’s good even to the point of sacrifice. It is not an impulse from one’s
feelings, nor does it always concur with natural inclinations. It is not directed only toward those
for whom some affinity is discovered. Love seeks the welfare of all.
A
Agape: God’s Kind of Love
God is love. He is the personification of love.
His goodwill toward us prompted by His goodness, not ours.
Imitation of God’s Love
Love is the crowning virtue of God—and the child of God.
When we love, we reflect the love of God.
Our Love of God
Shown by our affectionate reverence.
Rouses us to prompt obedience.
Shown in our grateful recognition of benefits received.
Our Love of Others
Our love is to be based on what is best and right.
We demonstrate our love by “doing good unto all men.”
Love is worthless unless expressed in actions.
But whoever has the world’s goods, and beholds his brother in need and closes his heart
against him, how does the love of God abide in him? Little children, let us not love with word
or with tongue, but in deed and truth. 1 John 3:17-18
Characteristics of love:
Love is patient, love is kind, and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does
not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account
a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all
things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
The Samaritan was ‘good’ because he did something good for a stranger.
Love (agape) is to be free and spontaneous, arising from a good heart attuned to the
will of God. God is love, and the goal of faith is to be God-like. The one who loves
has let faith have its perfect work.
Enhancing Your Faith
10
None of These ‘Qualities’
Can Survive Alone
In Order to Be Spiritually Healthy (Sound in Spirit) All Are Needed
A concerted effort needs to be put forth by each member.
Development takes time and effort.
The consequences of not developing them should be a wake-up call.
Each Quality Lends Support to the Others, and All Support Faith
Cannot be selective as to which ones we will develop.
Refusing to develop any of the qualities will have an adverse affect on the others.
Each Member Will Be Saved by Their Own Faith
It is imperative that every member work on developing all of them.
Help One Another Develop Them
By assisting others we strengthen our own faith.
2 Peter 1:8-11 (remainder of text)
“For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor
unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these qualities is
blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his purification from his former sins. Therefore,
brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as
long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; for in this way the entrance into the
eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you.”
˜
˜
˜
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us
and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen
your hearts in every good work and word.
2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
These qualities are to be ours. They need to be increasing.
(If we lack them, we are blind or short-sighted.)
We are to be all the more diligent. We are to practice these things.
Enhancing Your Faith
11